UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 16 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Stem Cells

With reference to ‘stem cells’, frequently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. Stem cells can be derived from mammals only.

2. Stem cells can be used for screening new drugs.

3. Stem cells can be used for medical therapies.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3
Show answer

Answer: B. 2 and 3 only

Verdict

Correct Answer: 2 and 3 only

Statements 2 and 3 are correct because stem cells are useful in drug screening and medical therapies, while Statement 1 is incorrect because stem cells are not limited to mammals.

Analysis

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can divide and develop into specialised cell types. They are important in research, drug testing and regenerative medicine.

Statement by statement

1. Stem cells can be derived from mammals only — Incorrect

Stem cells are not found only in mammals.

They are found in many multicellular organisms. In plants, stem cells occur in meristems, and some simple animals like Hydra and Planaria have strong regenerative stem cell capacity.

2. Stem cells can be used for screening new drugs — Correct

Stem cells can be grown and differentiated into specific cell types such as liver, nerve or heart cells.

These cells can then be used in laboratories to test the safety, toxicity and effectiveness of new drugs before wider trials.

3. Stem cells can be used for medical therapies — Correct

Stem cells are used in regenerative medicine to repair or replace damaged tissues.

Bone marrow transplantation for blood disorders is one of the most established examples of stem cell therapy.

Extra UPSC info

* Totipotent stem cells can form all body cells as well as extra-embryonic tissues.

* Pluripotent stem cells can form almost all body cell types.

* Multipotent stem cells can form a limited range of related cell types, such as blood cells.

* Induced pluripotent stem cells are adult cells reprogrammed into a pluripotent state.

* iPSCs reduce some ethical concerns linked with embryonic stem cells.

* In India, stem cell research is guided by ICMR and DBT guidelines.

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